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Savannah Tech, Beaufort college link hospitality offerings

Graduates of Savannah Technical College's hotel, restaurant and tourism diploma program now can transfer directly into the hospitality management bachelor's degree program at the University of South Carolina Beaufort.

Officials from both institutions announced their new articulation agreement Tuesday.

"For our students who want to continue their education at the bachelor's degree level, this is a wonderful opportunity to study and learn at an institution with a strong reputation and great proximity to one of the premier hospitality destinations in the country," said Savannah Tech President Kathy Love.

Currently, about 40 students are enrolled in the hotel, restaurant and tourism management diploma program at Savannah Tech. They complete the program prepared for jobs in the restaurant, hotel, service and tourism industries. Being able to ease into the bachelor's degree program at USCB will build on the basic skills they learn at Tech and increase their opportunities for advancement.

"This program will give them even greater opportunities to strengthen their skills for the workplace," said Brendan Ferrara, the program department head at Tech.

Officials believe the partnership will increase the pool of highly qualified workers for the service, travel, tourism and hospitality industries in the Lowcountry.

"Hospitality and tourism is the largest industry in this region," said USCB Chancellor Jane Upshaw. "We are pleased to have an articulation agreement with Savannah Tech so that their graduates will be able to come to USCB and continue their studies for careers in this important economic cluster."